Assembly for an electrolysis device and electrolysis device

Abstract

The present application provides an assembly for an electrolytic device, which includes a stack formed by sequentially stacking, in a stacking direction, a first porous transport layer, a first electrode layer, a membrane, a second electrode layer, and a second porous transport layer; a seal disposed around the stack in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction; and a first pole frame including a first retaining portion and a second pole frame including a second retaining portion. The first and second retaining portions cooperate with each other to retain the first and second pole frames as an integral structure, such that the first and second pole frames retain the stack and the seal therebetween. The first porous transport layer is at least partially disposed in an opening of the first pole frame. Side edges of the first porous transport layer cooperate with inner walls of the opening in a form-locked manner, such that the first porous transport layer is retained by the first pole frame. The present application also provides an electrolytic device including the aforementioned assembly. The assembly and the electrolytic device according to the present application are easy to manufacture, assemble, and maintain.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates generally to the field of electrolysis technology, and more particularly to a component for an electrolysis apparatus and an electrolysis apparatus including such a component. Background Technology

[0002] Hydrogen has a wide range of applications, covering many fields such as chemical engineering, energy, transportation, and electronics. Currently, there are many methods for hydrogen production, among which electrolysis is a hot research topic. Taking an alkaline solution electrolysis system as an example, an electrolyte is supplied to the electrolysis unit, where water in the electrolyte is electrolyzed. The reaction products (hydrogen and oxygen) and unconsumed electrolyte are discharged from the electrolysis unit and separated from each other. Subsequently, the reaction products are purified and stored, while the unconsumed electrolyte is returned to the electrolysis unit.

[0003] Electrolysis apparatuses typically comprise multiple electrolysis units stacked together and end plates for holding these units together. Each electrolysis unit may include, in sequence, an anode plate, an anode porous transport layer, an anode electrode layer, a membrane, a cathode electrode layer, a cathode porous transport layer, and a cathode plate. During the manufacture of an electrolysis apparatus, these components must be stacked one by one and held together by pressure. However, this manufacturing method is very time-consuming and prone to assembly errors (e.g., misalignment, deformation), resulting in low manufacturing efficiency and a high likelihood of quality problems.

[0004] Furthermore, during the service life of the electrolysis unit (e.g., up to 120,000 hours), some components (e.g., membranes) may be damaged or fail, thus requiring maintenance of the electrolysis unit. However, the electrolysis units and electrolysis devices produced through the above manufacturing process are difficult to disassemble and reassemble, and maintenance may also lead to damage to other electrolysis units.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve existing electrolysis equipment and its electrolysis units. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this application is to provide an improved component for an electrolysis apparatus and an electrolysis apparatus including such a component, in order to overcome at least one of the defects in the prior art described above.

[0007] In one aspect, this application proposes an assembly for an electrolysis apparatus, which may include: a stack formed by sequentially stacking a first porous transport layer, a first electrode layer, a membrane, a second electrode layer, and a second porous transport layer along a stacking direction; a seal disposed around the stack in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction; and a first pole frame including a first retaining portion and a second pole frame including a second retaining portion. The first retaining portion and the second retaining portion cooperate to hold the first pole frame and the second pole frame as an integral structure, such that the first pole frame and the second pole frame hold the stack and the seal therebetween. The first pole frame further includes a first opening extending through the first pole frame along the stacking direction and having a first inner wall. The first porous transport layer is at least partially disposed in the first opening and has a first side edge. The first side edge and the first inner wall cooperate in a form-locking manner such that the first porous transport layer is held by the first pole frame.

[0008] On the other hand, this application proposes an electrolysis apparatus that may include a plurality of electrolysis units, each of which may include the aforementioned components, and the plurality of electrolysis units may be stacked along the stacking direction and held together.

[0009] The components, electrolysis units, and electrolysis apparatus according to this application are easy to manufacture, assemble, and maintain, have high reliability and flexibility, and are significantly cost-effective.

[0010] These techniques can be used alone or in any suitable combination. The foregoing summary is provided illustratively and is not intended to be restrictive. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The above and other aspects of this application will be more thoroughly understood and appreciated below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are schematic only and not drawn to scale. In different drawings, the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, not all components or parts of the assemblies, electrolysis units, and electrolysis apparatus according to this application are shown or labeled in the drawings. It should be understood that the dimensions, scale relationships, and number of components or parts in the drawings are not intended to limit this application. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of an electrolysis apparatus according to some embodiments of this application;

[0013] Figure 2 Is included Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an electrolysis unit in an electrolysis apparatus, wherein the electrolysis unit is positioned relative to its... Figure 1The orientation is horizontal;

[0014] Figure 3A yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the first pole frame of the electrolysis unit;

[0015] Figure 3B yes Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the second pole frame of the electrolysis unit;

[0016] Figure 4A yes Figure 2 and Figure 3A A schematic top view of the first pole frame;

[0017] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A schematic bottom view of the first pole frame;

[0018] Figure 5A yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the area "5A" circled by the dashed box in the image;

[0019] Figure 5B yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the area "5B" circled by the dashed box in the image;

[0020] Figure 6A yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the area "6A" circled by the dashed box, showing the permanent magnets aligned with each other;

[0021] Figure 6B Is with Figure 6A A similar magnified view, but showing another permanent magnet inserted into the gap between the aligned permanent magnets;

[0022] Figure 7A and Figure 7B They are respectively with Figure 6A A similar magnified view shows what can be used Figure 2 An optional type of electrode frame for the electrolysis unit, wherein the lugs of the electrode frame are configured to be flip-up;

[0023] Figure 8A and Figure 8B They are respectively with Figure 6A A similar magnified view shows what can be used Figure 2 Another alternative type of pole frame for the electrolysis unit, wherein the permanent magnets of the pole frame are configured to be flip-up;

[0024] Figure 9 Is with Figure 6A A similar magnified view shows what can be used Figure 2 Another optional type of electrode frame for the electrolysis unit;

[0025] Figure 10 Is with Figure 6A A similar magnified view shows what can be used Figure 2 Another optional type of electrode frame for the electrolysis unit;

[0026] Figure 11 schematically shown Figure 2 The relative positioning of the electrode frame of one electrolytic unit to the electrode frame of an adjacent electrolytic unit; other components of these electrolytic units are omitted in this view; and

[0027] Figure 12 Is with Figure 5A A similar magnified view shows a first pole frame of an optional type. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Some embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following embodiments, an alkaline solution electrolysis device is used as an example for ease of description of the components according to this application, the electrolysis units and electrolysis apparatus including them, and the corresponding manufacturing and assembly methods. It should be understood that this example does not imply any limitation on this application, and the components, electrolysis units and electrolysis apparatus according to this application, as well as the corresponding manufacturing and assembly methods or variations thereof, can be used in other types of electrolysis systems, such as proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis systems, anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis systems, etc. Furthermore, features in the various embodiments of this application can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified.

[0029] Figure 1 An electrolysis apparatus 10 for an electrolysis system (not shown) according to some embodiments of this application is schematically illustrated. The electrolysis system may be an alkaline solution electrolysis system using an alkaline solution (e.g., potassium hydroxide solution, sodium hydroxide solution, etc.) as the electrolyte. The electrolysis apparatus 10 is configured to electrolyze water in the alkaline electrolyte to generate hydrogen and oxygen. The electrolysis apparatus 10 may also be referred to as an "electrolytic cell" or "electrolytic cell". The electrolysis apparatus 10 may include a housing (not shown) and a plurality of electrolysis units 20 housed within the housing.

[0030] Multiple electrolysis units 20 may have the same or substantially the same configuration as each other. Figures 2 to 6B The configuration of one of the electrolysis units 20 is shown. Electrolysis unit 20 may also be referred to as a "single electrolytic cell" or "single electrolytic cell". Figure 2As shown, the electrolysis unit 20 includes a first electrode frame 21, a second electrode frame 22, and a stack formed by sequentially stacking a first porous transport layer 23, a first electrode layer 24, a membrane (here, a diaphragm) 25, a second electrode layer 26, and a second porous transport layer 27 along a stacking direction 28. The membrane 25 is located between the first electrode layer 24 and the second electrode layer 26. The first porous transport layer 23 is located on the side of the first electrode layer 24 opposite to the membrane 25, and the second porous transport layer 27 is located on the side of the second electrode layer 26 opposite to the membrane 25. The layers can be in contact with each other. The first electrode frame 21 and the second electrode frame 22 are spaced apart from each other in the stacking direction 28, and the stack is held between the first electrode frame 21 and the second electrode frame 22 (as will be described in detail below). The first electrode layer 24 and the second electrode layer 26 can be electrically connected to an external DC power supply (not shown). The membrane 25 allows ions to pass through but prohibits gas molecules from passing through.

[0031] For example, the first electrode frame 21 can be an anode electrode frame, and the second electrode frame 22 can be a cathode electrode frame accordingly. In this case, the first porous transport layer 23 and the first electrode layer 24 are respectively the anode porous transport layer and the anode electrode layer, and the second porous transport layer 27 and the second electrode layer 26 are respectively the cathode porous transport layer and the cathode electrode layer. The configuration of the electrolysis unit 20 will be described below with reference to this example, but it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto.

[0032] by Figure 2 Taking the electrolysis unit 20 shown as an example, during operation, the electrolyte circulates through the electrolysis unit 20, and an external DC power supply supplies DC power to the first electrode layer 24 and the second electrode layer 26 of the electrolysis unit 20. At the second electrode layer 26 (i.e., the cathode electrode layer), water molecules gain electrons to generate hydrogen molecules and hydroxide ions (i.e., a reduction reaction occurs: 4H₂O + 4e⁻). - →2H₂ + 4OH⁻ - In this process, hydrogen molecules, unable to pass through membrane 25, are discharged along with the electrolyte, while hydroxide ions, driven by voltage, pass through membrane 25 from the second electrode layer 26 to the first electrode layer 24. At the first electrode layer 24 (i.e., the anode electrode layer), hydroxide ions lose electrons to generate oxygen and water molecules (i.e., an oxidation reaction occurs: 4OH⁻). - →2H₂O + O₂ + 4e - Oxygen molecules are expelled along with the electrolyte because they cannot pass through membrane 25.

[0033] Following the same principle, each electrolysis unit 20 can receive electrolyte and, after the aforementioned electrochemical reaction, discharges hydrogen-containing electrolyte at the cathode side (i.e., discharges cathode-side reaction products and unconsumed electrolyte), and simultaneously discharges oxygen-containing electrolyte at the anode side (i.e., discharges anode-side reaction products and unconsumed electrolyte). Correspondingly, the electrolysis apparatus 10 is provided with a hydrogen-side (also referred to as a cathode-side) outlet for discharging hydrogen-containing electrolyte, an oxygen-side (also referred to as an anode-side) outlet for discharging oxygen-containing electrolyte, and an inlet (not shown) for receiving electrolyte.

[0034] Although not shown, it is conceivable that each electrolysis unit 20 includes an anode-side outlet manifold channel, a cathode-side outlet manifold channel, and an electrolyte inlet manifold channel. When multiple electrolysis units 20 are used as follows... Figure 1 When the multiple electrolysis units 20 are stacked and held together along the stacking direction 28 as shown, the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold are aligned in the stacking direction 28 to form the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold, respectively. The electrolyte inlet manifold distributes the electrolyte received through the inlet of the electrolysis device 10 to each electrolysis unit 20, the cathode-side outlet manifold collects the hydrogen-containing electrolyte discharged from each electrolysis unit 20 to the hydrogen-side outlet of the electrolysis device 10, and the anode-side outlet manifold collects the oxygen-containing electrolyte discharged from each electrolysis unit 20 to the oxygen-side outlet of the electrolysis device 10.

[0035] Please continue reading Figure 2 Each electrolysis unit 20 also includes a seal 30, which provides a seal to isolate the internal space of the electrolysis unit 20 for the flow of electrolyte from the outside of the electrolysis unit 20. Specifically, the seal 30 is disposed around the aforementioned stack in a lateral direction (not shown) perpendicular to the stacking direction 28. In other words, the seal 30 is capable of surrounding the internal space of the electrolysis unit 20 for the flow of electrolyte to provide a seal, thereby isolating it from the outside of the electrolysis unit 20. The seal 30 may be disposed between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 in the stacking direction 28. As used herein, "lateral direction" means any direction perpendicular to the stacking direction 28. The seal 30 may be formed of any suitable material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Although the seal 30 is shown as a single piece, it should be understood that the application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the seal 30 may also include multiple pieces.

[0036] It is also conceivable that in each electrolysis unit 20, each of the anode-side outlet manifold, the cathode-side outlet manifold, and the electrolyte inlet manifold can extend through the seal 30 along the stacking direction 28. In other words, the seal 30 may include a plurality of orifices extending through the seal 30 along the stacking direction 28, which may respectively constitute a section of the anode-side outlet manifold, the cathode-side outlet manifold, and the electrolyte inlet manifold.

[0037] The first pole frame 21 can be formed of any suitable material such as resin or metal. Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 4A and Figure 4B An exemplary configuration of the first pole frame 21 is specifically illustrated. As shown, the first pole frame 21 may include a first surface 211 and a second surface 212 opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28. The first pole frame 21 may also include an opening 213 extending through the first pole frame 21 along the stacking direction 28. The opening 213 extends from the first surface 211 through the first pole frame 21 to the second surface 212 along the stacking direction 28. Thus, the first pole frame 21 may be in the shape of a generally rectangular frame. The opening 213 may have an inner wall 214. That is, the shape of the opening 213 is defined by the inner wall 214. As will be specifically described below, the opening 213 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aforementioned stack. The opening 213 may be used to define the anode-side flow space of the electrolysis unit 20. The first pole frame 21 may also include an outer wall 215 opposite to the inner wall 214. The outer wall 215 defines the outer boundary of the first pole frame 21 in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction 28. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the outer wall 215 may include a first wall segment 2151, a second wall segment 2152, a third wall segment 2153, and a fourth wall segment 2154. The first wall segment 2151 and the third wall segment 2153 are opposite to each other, and the second wall segment 2152 and the fourth wall segment 2154 are opposite to each other and extend between the first wall segment 2151 and the third wall segment 2153, respectively.

[0038] Although not shown, it is conceivable that each of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold of the electrolysis unit 20 can extend through the first electrode frame 21 along the stacking direction 28. In other words, the first electrode frame 21 may include a plurality of orifices extending through the first electrode frame 21 along the stacking direction 28, which may respectively constitute a segment of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold. For example, an opening 213 may be formed in the center of the first electrode frame 21, and these orifices may be formed around the opening 213. The opening 213 may also be referred to as a "central opening". Although not shown, it is conceivable that the first electrode frame 21 may also include an input channel and an output channel, wherein the input channel connects the electrolyte inlet manifold channel to the opening 213 for inputting electrolyte from the electrolyte inlet manifold channel into the anode-side flow space of the electrolysis unit 20, and the output channel connects the opening 213 to the anode-side outlet manifold channel for discharging anode-side reaction products and unconsumed electrolyte from the anode-side flow space to the anode-side outlet manifold channel.

[0039] The second pole frame 22 can be formed of any suitable material, such as resin or metal. Figure 2 and Figure 3B An exemplary configuration of the second pole frame 22 is specifically illustrated. As shown, the second pole frame 22 can be configured similarly to the first pole frame 21. The second pole frame 22 may include a first surface 221 and a second surface 222 opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28. The second pole frame 22 may also include an opening 223 extending through the second pole frame 22 along the stacking direction 28. The opening 223 extends from the first surface 221 through the second pole frame 22 to the second surface 222 along the stacking direction 28. Thus, the second pole frame 22 may be in the shape of a generally rectangular frame. The opening 223 may have an inner wall 224. That is, the shape of the opening 223 is defined by the inner wall 224. Similar to the opening 213 of the first pole frame 21 and as will be specifically described below, the opening 223 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aforementioned stack. The opening 223 may be used to define the cathode-side flow space of the electrolysis unit 20. The second pole frame 22 may also include an outer wall 225 opposite to the inner wall 224. Similar to the outer wall 215 of the first pole frame 21, the outer wall 225 defines the outer boundary of the first pole frame 21 in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction 28, and may include four wall segments.

[0040] Although not shown, it is conceivable that each of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold of the electrolysis unit 20 can extend through the second electrode frame 22 along the stacking direction 28. In other words, the second electrode frame 22 may include a plurality of orifices extending through the second electrode frame 22 along the stacking direction 28, which may respectively constitute a section of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold. For example, an opening 223 may be formed in the center of the second electrode frame 22, and these orifices may be formed around the opening 223. Therefore, the opening 223 may also be referred to as a "central opening". Although not shown, it is conceivable that the second electrode frame 22 may also include an input channel and an output channel, wherein the input channel connects the electrolyte inlet manifold channel to the opening 223 for inputting electrolyte from the electrolyte inlet manifold channel into the cathode-side flow space of the electrolysis unit 20, and the output channel connects the opening 223 to the cathode-side outlet manifold channel for discharging cathode-side reaction products and unconsumed electrolyte from the cathode-side flow space to the cathode-side outlet manifold channel.

[0041] like Figures 2 to 3B As shown, the first pole frame 21 may further include a first retaining portion 41, and the second pole frame 22 may further include a second retaining portion 42. The first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 can cooperate with each other to hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 as a single structure, thereby holding the aforementioned stack and seal 30 therebetween. As used in this application, "single structure" means that the components are held as a single unit so that they can be moved together (e.g., moved to a designated location or position), installed (e.g., installed into the electrolysis apparatus 10), and removed (e.g., detached from the electrolysis apparatus 10).

[0042] In this way, the first pole frame 21, the second pole frame 22, the stack, and the seal 30 can be formed as a single integrated assembly, i.e., a monolithic structure. In other words, the electrolysis unit according to this application can include such an integrated assembly. During the manufacture of the electrolysis device 10, the electrolysis device 10 can be formed by first manufacturing or forming the electrolysis unit 20 using this integrated assembly, and then stacking the individual electrolysis units 20 together. This integrated assembly is easier to handle when manufacturing the electrolysis unit 20 and the electrolysis device 10, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency of the electrolysis device 10. In addition, this integrated assembly can significantly reduce assembly errors (such as misalignment, deformation, etc.) during the manufacture of the electrolysis device 10, thereby improving the quality of the electrolysis device 10. When some components of the electrolysis unit 20 are damaged or fail and need to be replaced, this integrated assembly is easier to disassemble, replace, and reassemble, thereby improving the maintenance efficiency of the electrolysis device 10 and reducing its maintenance costs. Compared to existing electrolysis units where components are held together solely by pressure, the first holding portion 41 of the first pole frame 21 and the second holding portion 42 of the second pole frame 22 provide an initial holding force to hold the components together, thereby facilitating the assembly and maintenance of the electrolysis device 10 and improving the integration and reliability of the electrolysis unit 20. In other words, for the manufactured electrolysis unit 20, the holding force of the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 on the stack and seal 30 is provided by the first holding portion 41 and the second holding portion 42. As will be described in detail below, when multiple electrolysis units 20 are assembled into the electrolysis device 10, the clamp 50 (see...) Figure 1 A clamping force is applied to multiple electrolysis units 20 to hold them together. In this case, the holding force of the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 on the stack and the seal 30 is further provided by the clamp 50. Furthermore, the electrolysis unit 20 with this integrated assembly allows for flexible adjustment of the number of electrolysis units 20 in the electrolysis device 10 as needed, thereby improving the flexibility of the electrolysis device 10. Therefore, the integrated assembly according to this application, and the electrolysis unit 20 and electrolysis device 10 including it, are easy to manufacture, assemble, and maintain, have high reliability and flexibility, and are significantly cost-effective.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the first surface 211 of the first pole frame 21 can face the first surface 221 of the second pole frame 22. The second surface 212 of the first pole frame 21 can face away from the second pole frame 22, and the second surface 222 of the second pole frame 22 can face away from the first pole frame 21.

[0044] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, the first porous transport layer 23 can be at least partially disposed in the opening 213 of the first pole frame 21 and has a side edge (or side edge portion) 231. The side edge 231 of the first porous transport layer 23 and the inner wall 214 of the first pole frame 21 are configured to engage with each other in a form-locking manner so that the first porous transport layer 23 is held by the first pole frame 21. In other words, the side edge 231 and the inner wall 214 can engage in form so that the first porous transport layer 23 is held in place by the first pole frame 21. Specifically, when the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are held as an integral structure as described above, the first porous transport layer 23 can be held by the first pole frame 21 without displacement relative to the first pole frame 21 through the form-locking engagement between the side edge 231 and the inner wall 214. This cooperation between the first pole frame 21 and the first porous transmission layer 23 enables the first porous transmission layer 23 to be reliably held in place relative to the first pole frame 21, thereby improving the structural reliability of the aforementioned integrated component.

[0045] In one of these embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 4A As shown, the inner wall 214 of the first pole frame 21 may include a surface 214a and a flange 216 protruding from the surface 214a into the opening 213. The side edges 231 of the first porous transport layer 23 are supported by the flange 216 in the stacking direction 28. That is, the flange 216 of the first pole frame 21 can be used as a limiting portion to restrict the first porous transport layer 23 from passing through the opening 213 in the stacking direction 28, thereby holding the first porous transport layer 23 in place relative to the first pole frame 21. More specifically, as Figure 2 As best shown, the flange 216 of the first pole frame 21 can restrict the movement of the first porous transport layer 23 away from the membrane 25 in the stacking direction 28.

[0046] In some examples, such as Figure 4A As shown, the flange 216 of the first pole frame 21 can be a continuous annular flange around the first porous transmission layer 23. This allows for uniform support to be provided around the side edges 231 of the first porous transmission layer 23.

[0047] In other examples, the flange 216 of the first pole frame 21 may include a plurality of flange segments (not shown) spaced apart around the first porous transport layer 23. This allows for maximizing the volume of the first porous transport layer 23 while providing reliable support, thereby maximizing the effective area for transporting reactants. This is beneficial for improving the performance of the electrolysis unit 20.

[0048] The flange 216 can have any suitable shape. In some examples, such as... Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 5A As shown, the flange 216 may be a stepped flange and has a top surface 216a facing the stacking direction 28. The side edge 231 of the first porous transport layer 23 is supported by this top surface 216a in the stacking direction 28. Furthermore, the side edge 231 of the first porous transport layer 23 may engage with the surface 214a of the opening 213 of the first pole frame 21 in the lateral direction, so as to be limited by the surface 214a. In this way, the first porous transport layer 23 can be reliably held in place relative to the first pole frame 21.

[0049] In other examples, such as Figure 12 As shown, the flange 216 may be a ramp-shaped flange and has a ramp surface 216b inclined relative to the stacking direction 28. The side edge 231 of the first porous transport layer 23 is supported by this ramp surface 216b in the stacking direction 28. The ramp surface 216b may be configured such that at least a portion of the opening 213 gradually narrows in size in the direction from the first surface 211 to the second surface 212 of the first pole frame 21. The ramp surface 216b can provide uniform support to the side edge 231 of the first porous transport layer 23, thereby avoiding stress concentration.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, each of the first porous transport layer 23 and the first electrode layer 24 can be integrally disposed within the opening 213 of the first electrode frame 21. The first electrode layer 24 can be supported by the first porous transport layer 23 in the stacking direction 28. The side edge 241 of the first electrode layer 24 can engage with the surface 214a of the opening 213 of the first electrode frame 21 in the lateral direction, so as to be limited by the surface 214a. In this way, the first electrode layer 24 can be reliably held in place relative to the first electrode frame 21.

[0051] like Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 4A and Figure 5A As shown, the inner wall 214 of the first pole frame 21 may further include an annular groove 217. This annular groove 217 can be recessed inward from the first surface 211 of the first pole frame 21 facing the second pole frame 22 in the stacking direction 28, extending to the bottom surface 217a of the annular groove 217. It can also be recessed inward from the first surface 214a of the first pole frame 21 in the lateral direction, extending to the side surface 217b of the annular groove 217. That is, the annular groove 217 is recessed inward from the first surface 211 of the first pole frame 21, and communicates with the opening 213 in the lateral direction and is wider than the opening 213. The annular groove 217 has a bottom surface 217a and a side surface 217b.

[0052] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5A As shown, the membrane 25 can be at least partially disposed in the opening 213 of the first pole frame 21 and has a side edge (or side edge portion) 251. The side edge 251 of the membrane 25 is supported in the stacking direction 28 by the bottom surface 217a of the annular groove 217. That is, the bottom surface 217a of the annular groove 217 of the first pole frame 21 can be used as a limiting portion to hold the membrane 25 in place relative to the first pole frame 21. More specifically, as Figure 2 As best shown, the bottom surface 217a can restrict the movement of the membrane 25 toward the first porous transport layer 23 and the first electrode layer 24 in the stacking direction 28. Furthermore, the side edges 251 of the membrane 25 can engage with the side surfaces 217b of the annular groove 217 in the lateral direction, thereby being limited by the side surfaces 217b. In this way, the membrane 25 can be reliably held in place relative to the first electrode frame 21.

[0053] In one of these embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5A As shown, the membrane 25 can be integrally disposed within the opening 213 of the first pole frame 21. The side edges 251 of the membrane 25 can be entirely located within the annular groove 217 of the first pole frame 21. Figure 5A As shown, the side edge 251 of the membrane 25 has a thickness T in the stacking direction 28. As Figure 3A As shown, the annular groove 217 of the first pole frame 21 has a depth D in the stacking direction 28. The depth D is the distance from the first surface 211 of the first pole frame 21 to the bottom surface 217a of the annular groove 217.

[0054] In some examples, when the first electrode frame 21 and the second electrode frame 22 are held together, the surface 252 of the membrane 25 facing away from the first electrode layer 24 can be flush with the first surface 211 of the first electrode frame 21, and the thickness T of the side edge 251 of the membrane 25 can be equal to the depth D of the annular groove 217 of the first electrode frame 21. This configuration prevents the side edge 251 of the membrane 25 from being over-compressed, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the membrane 25 and improving the reliability and service life of the membrane 25. Specifically, the membrane 25 is compressible, so its thickness T decreases when it is compressed. For example, when the membrane 25 is not compressed, the thickness T can be 500 micrometers. When the first electrode frame 21 and the second electrode frame 22 are held together, the membrane 25 is compressed due to the holding force applied by the first holding portion 41 and the second holding portion 42, and the thickness T decreases. The amount of compression of the membrane 25 can be set by setting the depth D of the annular groove 217. For example, the depth D of the annular groove 217 can be set to 400 micrometers so that the membrane 25 can only be compressed to 400 micrometers. It should be understood that the specific values ​​of the thickness T and the depth D are not limited to these.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the seal 30 can be clamped between the first surface 211 of the first pole frame 21 and the first surface 221 of the second pole frame 22 in the stacking direction 28. In some examples, such as Figure 5A As best shown, the seal 30 can extend laterally beyond the side surface 217b of the annular groove 217 to press against the side edge 251 of the membrane 25. This configuration provides a reliable seal between the cathode and anode sides at the side edge 251 of the membrane 25, thereby effectively preventing gas leakage between the cathode and anode sides.

[0056] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the second porous transport layer 27 may be partially disposed in the opening 223 of the second pole frame 22. For example, in some examples, the second porous transport layer 27 and the second pole frame 22 may cooperate with each other in a manner similar to the cooperation between the first porous transport layer 23 and the first pole frame 21 (e.g., the shape-locking manner described above) to reliably hold the second porous transport layer 27 in place relative to the second pole frame 22.

[0057] It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the second porous transmission layer 27 may be integrally disposed in the opening 223 of the second pole frame 22.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the second electrode layer 26 is integrally disposed between the annular sidewalls 30a of the seal 30 to reliably hold the second electrode layer 26 in place. However, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the second electrode layer 26 may be partially disposed in the opening 223 of the second electrode frame 22.

[0059] In other examples, such as Figure 2 As shown, the aforementioned integrated assembly may further include an electrode plate 31, and the second electrode frame 22 can hold the electrode plate 31 to hold the second porous transport layer 27 in the opening 223 of the second electrode frame 22. That is, the second electrode frame 22 can hold the second porous transport layer 27 in the opening 223 by holding the electrode plate 31. The configuration of the integrated assembly including the electrode plate 31 can further improve the integration of the components in the electrolysis unit 20, thereby further facilitating the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of the electrolysis unit 20 and the electrolysis apparatus 10 including such an electrolysis unit 20.

[0060] For example, such as Figure 3B As shown, the inner wall 224 of the second pole frame 22 may include a surface 224a and an annular groove 227 recessed inward from the surface 224a into the second pole frame 22 in the lateral direction. Figure 2 and Figure 5BAs shown, the side edge 311 of the electrode plate 31 can be inserted into the annular groove 227 so that the electrode plate 31 is held by the second electrode frame 22. The annular groove 227 may have two sides 227a and 227b that are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28. The side edge 311 of the electrode plate 31 can be clamped between the sides 227a and 227b. For example, the side edge 311 of the electrode plate 31 may be a flange or narrow edge protruding from the body of the electrode plate 31. In this way, the electrode plate 31 can be reliably held in place relative to the second electrode frame 22. The electrode plate 31 can be used as a limiting part to hold the second porous transport layer 27 in place relative to the second electrode frame 22. The electrode plate 31 may prevent the second porous transport layer 27 from moving through the opening 223 on the side of the second porous transport layer 27 facing away from the membrane 25. The surface 312 of the electrode plate 31 facing away from the second porous transport layer 27 may be flush with the second surface 222 of the second electrode frame 22.

[0061] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the electrode plate 31 may also be attached to or integrally formed with the second electrode frame 22 by any other suitable means.

[0062] The electrode 31 can provide a flow field for the passage of the reactive fluid on at least one side. For example, the electrode 31 can be a bipolar plate, providing a cathode flow field on the side facing the second porous transport layer 27 (in the case where the second porous transport layer 27 is a cathode porous transport layer), and providing an anode flow field on the side facing away from the second porous transport layer 27. The cathode flow field of the electrode 31 can define... Figure 2 The cathode-side flow space of the electrolysis unit 20 shown, and the anode flow field of the electrode plate 31 can be defined with respect to... Figure 2 The flow space on the anode side of the electrolysis unit 20 adjacent to the electrolysis unit shown. That is, when the electrode plate 31 is a bipolar plate, the electrolysis unit 20 shares the electrode plate 31 with the adjacent electrolysis unit.

[0063] It should be understood that the configuration of electrode 31 is not limited to this. For example, electrode 31 can be a single electrode. Specifically, when the second porous transport layer 27 is a cathode porous transport layer, electrode 31 is correspondingly a cathode plate and provides a cathode-side flow field. In this case, another single electrode (not shown) can be held or fixed in any suitable manner (e.g., by attaching to the first electrode frame 21) on the side of the first porous transport layer 23 opposite to the first electrode layer 24 and serve as an anode plate.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5BAs shown, the aforementioned integrated assembly may further include a seal 32, which is fixed to the second surface 222 of the second pole frame 22 opposite to the first pole frame 21. The seal 32 may be formed of any suitable material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The configuration of the integrated assembly including the seal 32 can further improve the integration of the components in the electrolysis unit 20, thereby further facilitating the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of the electrolysis unit 20 and the electrolysis apparatus 10 including such an electrolysis unit 20.

[0065] The seal 32 is configured to provide a seal between the electrolysis unit 20 and another adjacent electrolysis unit. Specifically, each of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold of the electrolysis unit 20 can extend through the seal 32 along the stacking direction 28. In other words, the seal 32 can include a plurality of orifices extending through the seal 32 along the stacking direction 28, which can respectively form a portion of the anode-side outlet manifold, cathode-side outlet manifold, and electrolyte inlet manifold. Furthermore, when the surface 312 of the electrode plate 31 is flush with the second surface 222 of the second electrode frame 22, the seal 32 can extend laterally inward beyond the surface 224a of the inner wall 224 of the electrode plate 31 to press against the electrode plate 31, thereby providing a reliable seal against the electrode plate 31.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5B As best shown, the seal 32 can be adhered to the second surface 222 of the second pole frame 22 by means of the adhesive layer 33. The adhesive layer 33 can be formed of any suitable adhesive material. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the seal 32 can be secured to the second surface 222 of the second pole frame 22 by any other suitable means (e.g., snap-fit, heat welding, etc.).

[0067] In some embodiments, the first retaining portion 41 of the first pole frame 21 and the second retaining portion 42 of the second pole frame 22 may be configured to cooperate with each other to detachably retain the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together, that is, to detachably retain the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 as a single structure. As used herein, "detachably retaining the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 as a single structure" means that the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are retained as a single structure and can be separated from each other in a non-destructive manner (e.g., by hand or with the aid of tools) when needed. Since the first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 detachably retain the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 can detachably hold the stack and the seal 30 therebetween. This configuration further facilitates the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of the aforementioned single-piece assembly, the electrolysis unit 20, and the electrolysis apparatus 10 including such an electrolysis unit 20.

[0068] For example, such as Figure 2 and Figure 6A As shown, the first holding portion 41 of the first pole frame 21 can be a first magnetic attraction portion, and the second holding portion 42 of the second pole frame 22 can be a second magnetic attraction portion. The first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion can be configured to cooperate with each other to magnetically attract each other, thereby detachably holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together, that is, detachably holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 as an integral structure. As used in this application, "the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion magnetically attract each other" means that the magnetic field force generated by at least one of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion causes the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion to tend to approach each other or maintain contact. Using a magnetic attraction portion as a holding portion facilitates the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of the aforementioned integral component, the electrolysis unit 20, and the electrolysis apparatus 10 including such an electrolysis unit 20.

[0069] In some embodiments, at least one of the first magnetic attraction portion of the first pole frame 21 and the second magnetic attraction portion of the second pole frame 22 may include a permanent magnet, such that the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion can magnetically attract each other. As used herein, "permanent magnet" refers to a magnet that can maintain its magnetism for a long period of time without external energy. Permanent magnets are typically made of hard magnetic materials (e.g., neodymium iron boron, AlNiCo, ferrite, etc.). Permanent magnets have first and second magnetic poles that are opposite to each other. In this application, unless otherwise stated, when describing various permanent magnets, the first magnetic poles of these permanent magnets refer to first magnetic poles of the same polarity, and the second magnetic poles of these permanent magnets refer to second magnetic poles of the same polarity but opposite to the first magnetic pole. That is, for each permanent magnet in this application, the first magnetic pole refers to a magnetic pole of the same name, and the second magnetic pole refers to another magnetic pole of the same name with opposite polarity to the first magnetic pole. The first magnetic pole can be an S pole, and the second magnetic pole is correspondingly an N pole, and vice versa. In the following description, the configuration of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion will be described with reference to an example in which the first magnetic pole is the S pole and the second magnetic pole is the N pole; however, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto.

[0070] In one of these embodiments, each of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion may include a permanent magnet. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 6A As shown, the first magnetic attraction portion may include a plurality of first permanent magnets 61 (only one of the first permanent magnets 61 is shown in the figure), and the second magnetic attraction portion may include a plurality of second permanent magnets 62 (only one of the second permanent magnets 62 is shown in the figure). Each of the plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and the plurality of second permanent magnets 62 has a first magnetic pole (i.e., the S pole) and a second magnetic pole (i.e., the N pole). Figure 2 and Figure 6AIn the diagram, the first and second magnetic poles of these permanent magnets are marked with "S" and "N," respectively. Each of the plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and the plurality of second permanent magnets 62 is oriented such that its first and second magnetic poles are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28. Each of the plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 is aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28 such that the first magnetic pole of each first permanent magnet 61 and the second magnetic pole of its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 face each other. That is, the first magnetic pole of each first permanent magnet 61 and the second magnetic pole of its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 are opposite each other in the stacking direction 28. Correspondingly, the second magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61 is opposite to its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 in the stacking direction 28, and the first magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62 is opposite to its corresponding first permanent magnet 61 in the stacking direction 28. In this way, each first permanent magnet 61 and its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 magnetically attract each other to detachably hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 as a single unit, thereby holding the stack and the seal 30 therebetween. This configuration, in which each of the first and second magnetic attraction portions includes a permanent magnet, provides a reliable holding force between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22.

[0071] In some examples, please see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 The first magnetic attraction portion may further include a plurality of third permanent magnets 63 (only one third permanent magnet 63 is shown in the figure), and the second magnetic attraction portion may further include a plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64 (only one fourth permanent magnet 64 is shown in the figure). Each of the plurality of third permanent magnets 63 and the plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64 has a first magnetic pole (i.e., the S pole) and a second magnetic pole (i.e., the N pole). Figure 2 In the diagram, the first and second magnetic poles of these permanent magnets are marked with "S" and "N," respectively. Each of the plurality of third permanent magnets 63 and the plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64 is oriented such that its first and second magnetic poles are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28. Each of the plurality of third permanent magnets 63 and its corresponding fourth permanent magnet 64 are aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28 such that the second magnetic pole of each third permanent magnet 63 faces the first magnetic pole of the corresponding fourth permanent magnet 64. That is, the second magnetic pole of each third permanent magnet 63 and the first magnetic pole of the corresponding fourth permanent magnet 64 are opposite each other in the stacking direction 28, the first magnetic pole of the third permanent magnet 63 is opposite to the fourth permanent magnet 64 in the stacking direction 28, and the second magnetic pole of the fourth permanent magnet 64 is opposite to the third permanent magnet 63 in the stacking direction 28.

[0072] Therefore, the magnetic pole orientation of the first permanent magnet 61 is opposite to that of the third permanent magnet 63 and the second permanent magnet 62, but the same as that of the fourth permanent magnet 64. When the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are not correctly aligned with each other, the first permanent magnet 61 and the fourth permanent magnet 64 (it should be understood that there may be one or more sets of them) may be aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28, and / or the second permanent magnet 62 and the third permanent magnet 63 (it should be understood that there may be one or more sets of them) may be aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the fourth permanent magnet 64 magnetically repel each other, and / or the second permanent magnet 62 and the third permanent magnet 63 magnetically repel each other. This magnetic repulsion will prevent the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 from approaching each other, thereby preventing the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 from being placed in the wrong orientation. When the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 are aligned with each other in the correct orientation (or desired orientation), the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 are aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28, and the third permanent magnet 63 and the fourth permanent magnet 64 are aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 are magnetically attracted to each other, and the third permanent magnet 63 and the fourth permanent magnet 64 are magnetically attracted to each other. This magnetic attraction brings the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 close to each other and reliably holds them together. This configuration, in which each of the first and second magnetic attraction portions includes permanent magnets with opposite magnetic pole orientations, prevents the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 from being misaligned relative to each other and provides precise alignment between the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22. This configuration can significantly improve the assembly accuracy between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, thereby further facilitating the manufacture, assembly and maintenance of the aforementioned integrated component, electrolysis unit 20 and electrolysis device 10 including such electrolysis unit 20.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, the first magnetic pole of each first permanent magnet 61 can face the second pole frame 22, and the second magnetic pole can face away from the second pole frame 22. The second magnetic pole of each second permanent magnet 62 can face the second pole frame 22, and the first magnetic pole can face away from the second pole frame 22. The second magnetic pole of each third permanent magnet 63 can face the second pole frame 22, and the first magnetic pole can face away from the second pole frame 22. The first magnetic pole of each fourth permanent magnet 64 can face the first pole frame 21, and the second magnetic pole can face away from the first pole frame 21.

[0074] In some embodiments, a plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and a plurality of third permanent magnets 63 may be arranged in a first arrangement pattern, and a plurality of second permanent magnets 62 and a plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64 may be arranged in a second arrangement pattern. The first and second arrangement patterns can be matched to each other such that the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 are held together in a unique orientation relative to each other as a single structure. The arrangement pattern of the permanent magnets may include, but is not limited to, the number, shape, relative position (including order), or combination thereof of the permanent magnets. That is, the first and second arrangement patterns can be matched to each other such that the plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and the plurality of third permanent magnets 63, along with the plurality of second permanent magnets 62 and the plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64, can hold the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 together in this unique orientation relative to each other. Alternatively, the first and second arrangement patterns can be matched such that each first permanent magnet 61 can be aligned with its corresponding second permanent magnet 62 in the stacking direction 28, and each third permanent magnet 63 can be aligned with its corresponding fourth permanent magnet 64 in the stacking direction 28, only when the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are aligned relative to each other in the unique orientation, thereby holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together. Conversely, when the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are aligned relative to each other in other orientations deviating from the unique orientation, some or all of the plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and the plurality of third permanent magnets 63 will be unable to be aligned with their corresponding permanent magnets in the stacking direction 28, and even the aforementioned magnetic repulsion may occur between the permanent magnets of the two pole frames, thus making it impossible to hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together. Therefore, this configuration can provide precise alignment between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, thereby significantly improving the assembly accuracy between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22.

[0075] As an example, such as Figures 4A to 4B and Figure 11 As shown, for the first pole frame 21, three permanent magnets may be disposed adjacent to or at each of the first wall segments 2151, the second wall segment 2152, the third wall segment 2153, and the fourth wall segment 2154. For these wall segments 2151-2154, the number and arrangement of the first permanent magnets 61 and the third permanent magnets 63 differ from each other. For example, according to... Figure 11In a counter-clockwise direction, the three permanent magnets sequentially arranged near or at the first wall segment 2151 can be the third permanent magnet 63, the first permanent magnet 61, and the first permanent magnet 61; the three permanent magnets sequentially arranged near or at the second wall segment 2152 can be the first permanent magnet 61, the third permanent magnet 63, and the first permanent magnet 61; the three permanent magnets sequentially arranged near or at the third wall segment 2153 can be the third permanent magnet 63, the third permanent magnet 63, and the first permanent magnet 61; and the three permanent magnets sequentially arranged near or at the fourth wall segment 2154 can be the third permanent magnet 63, the first permanent magnet 61, and the third permanent magnet 63. For the second pole frame 22, three permanent magnets can be correspondingly arranged adjacent to or at each wall segment to cooperate with the corresponding permanent magnets of the first pole frame 21, thereby providing a magnetic attraction between the second pole frame 22 and the first pole frame 21. For example, the three permanent magnets sequentially arranged adjacent to or at the wall segment corresponding to the first wall segment 2151 of the first pole frame 21 are the fourth permanent magnet 64, the second permanent magnet 62, and the second permanent magnet 62. Due to this arrangement of the permanent magnets in the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 can be held together relative to each other in a unique orientation.

[0076] It should be understood that the specific forms of the first and second arrangement patterns are not limited thereto. More precisely, the first and second arrangement patterns can be configured in any suitable form, including the number, shape, relative position (including order), or combination thereof of permanent magnets, such that the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are held together relative to each other in a unique orientation. For example, each pole frame has two types of permanent magnets with opposite magnetic pole orientations, which can be arranged in an asymmetrical pattern or any other suitable pattern about a central axis parallel to the stacking direction of the pole frame. Furthermore, the number of permanent magnets in the adjacent wall segments or at the adjacent wall segments can be different. Moreover, the shapes of the permanent magnets in the adjacent wall segments or at the adjacent wall segments can be different. All of these enable the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 to be held together relative to each other in a unique orientation. It should also be understood that the shape of the pole frame is not limited to this, and even if the pole frame has other shapes, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 can still be held together in a unique orientation relative to each other by matching the first arrangement pattern and the second arrangement pattern.

[0077] In some embodiments, a plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and a plurality of third permanent magnets 63 may be alternately arranged around the stack (or opening 213) on the first pole frame 21, and a plurality of second permanent magnets 62 and a plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64 may be alternately arranged around the stack (or opening 223) on the second pole frame 22. Although this arrangement pattern is not shown in the views, it is contemplated that these permanent magnets may be arranged adjacent to or at the respective wall segments of the pole frame to surround the stack (or opening). This configuration provides precise alignment and uniform holding force between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, each first permanent magnet 61 of the first pole frame 21 (or the portion of the first pole frame 21 with the first permanent magnet 61) and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 of the second pole frame 22 (or the portion of the second pole frame 22 with the second permanent magnet 62) can be spaced apart by a gap G1 in the stacking direction 28. The size of the gap G1 can be designed such that sufficient magnetic attraction is maintained between the first permanent magnet 61 and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 along the stacking direction 28, while allowing a tool to be inserted between the first permanent magnet 61 and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 (or between the portion of the first pole frame 21 with the first permanent magnet 61 and the portion of the second pole frame 22 with the second permanent magnet 62). Operating the tool can cause the first permanent magnet 61 and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 to move away from each other to disengage from the magnetic attraction, thereby facilitating the separation of the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22.

[0079] In some examples, the tool can be a lever-like tool, such as a crowbar, which, when operated, causes the first permanent magnet 61 and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 to move away from each other in the stacking direction 28, thereby disengaging them from magnetic attraction. In other examples, such as Figure 6BAs shown, the tool may include a fifth permanent magnet 65, or may be a fifth permanent magnet 65 having a first magnetic pole (i.e., the S pole) and a second magnetic pole (i.e., the N pole). The fifth permanent magnet 65 may be received in the gap G1 and oriented such that its first magnetic pole and second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28, wherein the first magnetic pole of the fifth permanent magnet 65 faces the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61, and the second magnetic pole of the fifth permanent magnet 65 faces the second magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62. In this case, the fifth permanent magnet 65 will separate the corresponding first permanent magnet 61 and second permanent magnet 62, and generate magnetic repulsion between itself and the first permanent magnet 61 and between itself and the second permanent magnet 62, thereby causing the first permanent magnet 61 to disengage from the corresponding second permanent magnet 62. Through this cooperation between the gap G1 and the fifth permanent magnet 65, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, which have been assembled together, can be easily separated. It should be understood that the gap G1 can also be configured to allow the first permanent magnet 61 and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62 to be moved away from each other in the stacking direction 28 by hand, so as to break their magnetic attraction.

[0080] Although not shown in the views, it should be understood that when the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 respectively include a third permanent magnet 63 and a fourth permanent magnet 64, each third permanent magnet 63 and its corresponding fourth permanent magnet 64 can also be spaced apart in the stacking direction 28 by a gap similar to gap G1. This gap can provide a similar function. For example, this gap can be configured to receive a sixth permanent magnet (not shown). This sixth permanent magnet has a first magnetic pole and a second magnetic pole, and is oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28, wherein the second magnetic pole of the sixth permanent magnet faces the second magnetic pole of the third permanent magnet 63, and the first magnetic pole of the sixth permanent magnet faces the first magnetic pole of the fourth permanent magnet 64.

[0081] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 6A and Figure 11 As shown, the first pole frame 21 may include lugs 2155 projecting outward (e.g., in the lateral direction) from wall segments 2151-2154 of the outer wall 215. Permanent magnets 61 and 63 of the first magnetic attraction portion of the first pole frame 21 may be disposed in the corresponding lugs 2155. For example, the permanent magnets may be molded or inserted into the lugs 2155, or disposed in the lugs 2155 in any other suitable manner. Similarly, as Figure 11As shown, the second pole frame 22 may include lugs 2255 projecting outward from the outer wall 225 (e.g., in the lateral direction). The permanent magnets 62 and 64 of the second magnetic attraction portion of the second pole frame 22 may be disposed in the corresponding lugs 2255. For example, the permanent magnets may be molded or inserted into the lugs 2255, or disposed in the lugs 2255 in any other suitable manner. The aforementioned gap G1 may be located between lugs 2155 and lugs 2255.

[0082] By placing the permanent magnet in the lug, a magnetic attraction portion can be provided to the pole frame without altering its original design (e.g., a sealed design) and without significantly increasing the size and material used in its manufacture (and therefore, without significantly increasing its weight). Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown schematically, some of lugs 2155 and 2255 can be used as mounting guides. As will be described in detail below, during the assembly of the electrolysis unit 20 and the electrolysis apparatus 10, lugs 2155 and 2255 can rest on guide rods such as the connecting rod 54 of the clamp 50 or other suitable guides to help align the electrode frames with each other, or to help align the individual electrolysis units 20 with each other. It should be understood that lugs 2155 and 2255 are not limited to having the shape shown in the illustration, but can have any suitable shape.

[0083] In some embodiments, the lugs 2155 of the first pole frame 21 may be integrally formed with the first pole frame 21 (e.g., by molding). This configuration improves the overall integrity of the first pole frame 21 and reduces the number of parts. In other embodiments, the lugs 2155 of the first pole frame 21 may be formed separately from the first pole frame 21 and attached to the first pole frame 21. This configuration improves the manufacturing flexibility of the first pole frame 21. For example, the lugs 2155 of the first pole frame 21 may be detachably attached to the first pole frame 21 (e.g., by engaging structures such as snaps or pins). This configuration facilitates the mounting and removal of permanent magnets from the first pole frame 21. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates the adjustment of the orientation of the permanent magnets, for example, by reversing the orientation of the permanent magnet poles, thereby using the magnetic repulsion between the permanent magnets to separate the pole frames. Alternatively, the lugs 2155 of the first pole frame 21 may be non-detachably attached to the first pole frame 21 (e.g., by adhesive).

[0084] Similar to the lug 2155 of the first pole frame 21, the lug 2255 of the second pole frame 22 can also be formed in a similar manner. For the sake of brevity, the details of these similar contents will not be elaborated further.

[0085] Although the exemplary configuration of the first and second magnetic attracting portions has been described above in conjunction with the first magnetic attracting portion of the first pole frame 21 including a plurality of first permanent magnets 61 and a plurality of third permanent magnets 63, and the second magnetic attracting portion of the second pole frame 22 including a plurality of second permanent magnets 62 and a plurality of fourth permanent magnets 64, it should be understood that the type and number of permanent magnets in the first and second magnetic attracting portions are not limited thereto. For example, the first magnetic attracting portion may include only one first permanent magnet 61 and one third permanent magnet 63, and the second magnetic attracting portion may correspondingly include only one second permanent magnet 62 and one fourth permanent magnet 64. As another example, the first magnetic attracting portion may include only the first permanent magnet 61, and the second magnetic attracting portion may correspondingly include only the second permanent magnet 62.

[0086] Figures 7A to 10 They are respectively with Figure 6A A similar magnified view, but showing what can be used... Figure 2 The electrolysis unit 20 has four optional types of electrode frames. For the same or similar parts of these electrode frames, the design will be based on... Figures 2 to 6B The reference numerals in the figures indicating the portions of frames 21 and 22 are used to indicate the parts of the figures. Figures 7A to 10 The same or similar parts of these optional pole frames are indicated by the symbols. For the sake of brevity, the details of these same or similar parts will not be repeated, and the unique features of these optional pole frames will be described in detail below.

[0087] and Figure 2 , Figure 6A and Figure 6B The configuration of the magnetic attraction portion of the pole frame varies. In some embodiments, the pole frame can be configured such that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet is reversible. For example, the pole frame can be configured such that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet in the stacking direction 28 is reversible.

[0088] In one of these embodiments, such as Figure 7A and Figure 7B As shown, each lug 2155 of the first pole frame 21 and lug 2255 of the second pole frame 22 are configured to be flippable, such that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnets disposed in lugs 2155 and 2255 in the stacking direction 28 can be flipped. For example, each lug 2155 and 2255 can be pivotally attached to the corresponding pole frames 21 and 22 via pivots 2116 and 2216 respectively, so that the lug can be flipped relative to the pole frame, thereby allowing the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnets disposed in the lug in the stacking direction 28 to be flipped. Figure 6A Similar to what is shown, such as Figure 7AAs shown, the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61 and the second magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62 face each other. The second magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61 is opposite to the second permanent magnet 62 in the stacking direction 28, and the first magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62 is opposite to the first permanent magnet 61 in the stacking direction 28. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 are magnetically attracted to each other to detachably hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 into a single structure. Figure 7B As shown, the lug 2155 of the first pole piece 21 is flipped so that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the first permanent magnet 61 in the stacking direction 28 is reversed, thereby making the second magnetic poles of the first permanent magnet 61 and the second magnetic poles of the second permanent magnet 62 face each other. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 will magnetically repel each other. With this configuration, the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22, which have been assembled together, can be easily separated. It should be understood that the lug 2255 of the second pole piece 22 can be flipped in a similar manner. It should also be understood that only one of the lugs 2155 and 2255 can be configured to be flipped.

[0089] In another of these embodiments, such as Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, each of the first permanent magnets 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 is configured to be flipped in a corresponding lug, thereby reversing the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet in the stacking direction 28. For example, each of the first permanent magnets 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 can be pivotally disposed in a corresponding lug via pivots 2117 and 2217, respectively, so that the permanent magnet can be flipped relative to the corresponding lug, thereby reversing the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet in the stacking direction 28. Figure 6A Similar to what is shown, such as Figure 8A As shown, the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61 and the second magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62 face each other. The second magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61 is opposite to the second permanent magnet 62 in the stacking direction 28, and the first magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62 is opposite to the first permanent magnet 61 in the stacking direction 28. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 are magnetically attracted to each other to detachably hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 into a single structure. Figure 8BAs shown, the first permanent magnet 61 is flipped so that the orientation of its first and second magnetic poles in the stacking direction 28 is reversed, thereby making the second magnetic poles of the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 face each other. In this case, the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 will magnetically repel each other. With this configuration, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, which have been assembled together, can be easily separated. It should be understood that the second permanent magnet 62 can be flipped in a similar manner. It should also be understood that only one of the first permanent magnet 61 and the second permanent magnet 62 can be configured to be flipped.

[0090] It should be understood that any suitable retaining mechanism can be provided to hold the aforementioned reversible lug and reversible permanent magnet in a releasable manner, thereby preventing them from being accidentally flipped. It should also be understood that the reversible design of the magnetic attachment portion of the pole frame is not limited to this, but can take any suitable form.

[0091] Although the foregoing description describes the permanent magnets being oriented such that their first and second magnetic poles are opposite to each other in the stacking direction 28, it should be understood that the orientation of the permanent magnets is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the permanent magnets may be oriented such that their first and second magnetic poles are opposite to each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction 28. Figure 9 As shown, each of the first permanent magnet 61' and the second permanent magnet 62' has a first magnetic pole (i.e., the S pole) and a second magnetic pole (i.e., the N pole), and is oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction 28. Each first permanent magnet 61' and the corresponding second permanent magnet 62' are aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28 such that the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61' and the second magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62' face each other in the stacking direction, and the second magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet 61' and the first magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet 62' face each other in the stacking direction. This configuration prevents the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 from being misaligned relative to each other and provides precise alignment between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22. This configuration can significantly improve the assembly accuracy between the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, thereby further facilitating the manufacture, assembly, and maintenance of the aforementioned integrated component, the electrolysis unit 20, and the electrolysis apparatus 10 including such an electrolysis unit 20.

[0092] It should be understood that the first permanent magnet 61' and the second permanent magnet 62' can also be disposed in the lugs of the pole frame in a manner similar to that described above. Furthermore, it is also possible to... Figure 9The illustrated embodiment provides a flipping mechanism to allow the lateral orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of at least one of the first permanent magnet 61' and the second permanent magnet 62' to be flipped. It is contemplated that flipping the lateral orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of either the first permanent magnet 61' or the second permanent magnet 62' can cause the first permanent magnet 61' and the second permanent magnet 62' to magnetically repel each other. With this configuration, the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22, which have been assembled together, can be easily separated.

[0093] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first permanent magnet 61' and the second permanent magnet 62' may also be spaced apart in the stacking direction 28 by a gap similar to the gap G1, thereby separating the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 in a manner similar to that described above.

[0094] Despite the above combination Figures 2 to 9 An embodiment in which each of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion includes a permanent magnet has been described, but it should be understood that the present application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, only one of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion includes a permanent magnet.

[0095] Specifically, such as Figure 10 As shown, the first magnetic attraction portion includes a permanent magnet 68, while the second magnetic attraction portion includes a magnetizable portion 69. For example, the magnetizable portion 69 can be made of a soft magnetic material. A soft magnetic material is one that does not "memorize" the magnetic field state itself, but completely follows changes in the external magnetic field. It can quickly reach magnetic saturation under the influence of an external magnetic field and almost completely demagnetizes after the external magnetic field is removed. The permanent magnet 68 is aligned with the magnetizable portion 69 in the stacking direction 28 and magnetizes the magnetizable portion 69. With this configuration, the first and second magnetic attraction portions can magnetically attract each other, thereby detachably holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together.

[0096] Despite Figure 10Only one permanent magnet 68 and its corresponding magnetizable portion 69 are shown. However, it should be understood that the first magnetic attraction portion may include multiple permanent magnets 68, and the second magnetic attraction portion correspondingly includes multiple magnetizable portions 69. Each permanent magnet 68 is aligned with its corresponding magnetizable portion 69 in the stacking direction 28 and magnetizes that magnetizable portion 69. In some examples, multiple magnetizable portions 69 may be spaced apart using non-magnetizable portions (not shown). With this configuration, when the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 are not aligned with each other in the stacking direction 28 with the correct orientation, the permanent magnet 68 will be aligned with the non-magnetizable portion in the stacking direction 28, thus preventing magnetic attraction between them. This configuration prevents the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22 from being misaligned relative to each other and provides precise alignment between the first pole piece 21 and the second pole piece 22. It is conceivable that the permanent magnet 68 and the magnetizable portion 69 can also be arranged in the lugs of the pole frame in a manner similar to that described above, and the non-magnetizable portion can be the gap between the lugs.

[0097] Although the foregoing description indicates that the magnetic attraction portion of the pole frame is located at the lug, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the magnetic attraction portion can be located at any suitable position on the pole frame. For example, the magnetic attraction portion can be located adjacent to the outer wall of the pole frame. It should also be understood that when the magnetic attraction portion is located at other positions on the pole frame, the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet can be reversed.

[0098] Although the foregoing description pertains to an embodiment in which at least one of the first and second magnetic attraction portions includes a permanent magnet, it should be understood that the present application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, neither the first nor the second magnetic attraction portion may include a permanent magnet. For example, the first and second magnetic attraction portions may each be integral parts of a pole frame, and these portions are magnetized to magnetically attract each other, thereby detachably holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together.

[0099] Although the first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 are described above as magnetically attracted portions to detachably hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 may also be in any other suitable form (e.g., snap-fit, threaded connection, etc.) to detachably hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together.

[0100] Furthermore, although the above description describes the first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 detachably holding the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together, it should be understood that the present application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the first retaining portion 41 and the second retaining portion 42 can hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together non-detachably (i.e., permanently).

[0101] Please return to the reference. Figure 1 The electrolysis apparatus 10 includes multiple electrolysis units 20 and a clamp 50. Each electrolysis unit 20 may include the aforementioned integrated components (i.e., a first electrode frame 21, a second electrode frame 22, the aforementioned stack and seal 30, and optionally an electrode plate 31 and a seal 32). The multiple electrolysis units 20 are stacked along a stacking direction 28. Figure 1 and Figure 11 As schematically shown, for each electrolytic unit 20, the first magnetic attraction portion of the first pole frame 21 of the electrolytic unit 20 is adjacent to and magnetically attracted to the second magnetic attraction portion of the second pole frame 22 of an adjacent electrolytic unit 20, and the second magnetic attraction portion of the second pole frame 22 of the electrolytic unit 20 is adjacent to and magnetically attracted to the first magnetic attraction portion of the first pole frame 21 of another adjacent electrolytic unit 20. With this configuration, an initial holding force is provided to hold the multiple electrolytic units 20 together. As will be described in detail below, the clamp 50 can further provide a holding force to reliably hold these electrolytic units 20 together. It is conceivable that the adjacent magnetic attraction portions of two adjacent electrolytic units 20 can also be designed to be spaced apart in the stacking direction 28 by a distance similar to the gap G1.

[0102] The clamp 50 may include a first end plate 51, a second end plate 52, and a third end plate 53. The second end plate 52 is disposed between the first end plate 51 and the third end plate 53 in the stacking direction 28. The clamp 50 may also include a plurality of connecting rods 54 connecting the first end plate 51, the second end plate 52, and the third end plate 53. The first end plate 51 and the third end plate 53 are fixed relative to each other by the connecting rods 54. That is, the first end plate 51 and the third end plate 53 are both fixed end plates. The second end plate 52 is slidable relative to the first end plate 51 and the third end plate 53 along the stacking direction 28 on the connecting rods 54. That is, the second end plate 52 is a movable end plate. The first end plate 51 and the second end plate 52 are configured to clamp a stack formed by a plurality of electrolytic units 20 therebetween in the stacking direction 28, so as to hold the plurality of electrolytic units 20 together. The clamp 50 may further include a device 55 configured to drive the second end plate 52 to move relative to the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28. In this way, the device 55 can apply pressure to the second end plate 52 such that the second end plate 52 and the first end plate 51 apply a clamping force to the stack of electrolytic units 20 located therebetween, thereby reliably holding the plurality of electrolytic units 20 together. The device 55 can adjust the clamping force applied to the stack of electrolytic units 20 by adjusting the position of the second end plate 52 relative to the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28. The clamp 50 may also be referred to as a “holding mechanism” or a “holding device”.

[0103] This configuration of the clamps 50 of the electrolysis unit 10 makes it easier to install the electrolysis unit 20 into and remove and replace the electrolysis unit 20 from the electrolysis unit 10, thereby significantly improving the maintenance efficiency of the electrolysis unit 10 and reducing its maintenance costs.

[0104] It is conceivable that in some embodiments, the hydrogen-side outlet, oxygen-side outlet, and inlet of the electrolysis device 10 are all located at the first end plate 51. It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, one or more of the hydrogen-side outlet, oxygen-side outlet, and inlet of the electrolysis device 10 may be located at the second end plate 52.

[0105] In some embodiments, device 55 may be a hydraulic drive device, fixed to the third end plate 53, and hydraulically driving the second end plate 52 to move relative to the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28. The use of a hydraulic drive device provides a reliable clamping force and allows for precise adjustment of the clamping force. Furthermore, hydraulic drive devices have lower maintenance costs. It should be understood that in other embodiments, any other suitable type of device may be used to adjust the position of the second end plate 52 relative to the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28, thereby adjusting the clamping force applied by the first end plate 51 and the second end plate 52 to the stacking of the electrolysis unit 20.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, thanks to the integrated assembly of the electrolysis unit 20 and the aforementioned configuration of the clamp 50, multiple electrolysis units 20 of the electrolysis device 10 can be stacked horizontally. In other words, the stacking direction 28 can be horizontally oriented relative to the direction of gravity. As described in the background art, in conventional electrolysis devices, the components are held together by pressure. More specifically, in conventional electrolysis devices, the individual electrolysis units must be stacked on top of each other along the direction of gravity. This results in conventional electrolysis devices having a very high vertical height (e.g., reaching 5 meters or more), and their assembly and maintenance are time-consuming and labor-intensive. Compared to conventional electrolysis devices, since the stacking direction 28 in the electrolysis device 10 according to this application is horizontally oriented relative to the direction of gravity, the electrolysis device 10 can have a significantly reduced vertical height and can be easily assembled and maintained.

[0107] In other embodiments, the stacking direction 28 may also be oriented parallel to the direction of gravity. In this case, the electrolysis device 10 can still be easily assembled and maintained.

[0108] Although the present description uses several connecting rods 54 to connect the first end plate 51, the second end plate 52 and the third end plate 53, it should be understood that any other type of structure may be used to fix the first end plate 51 and the third end plate 53 and to allow the second end plate 52 to move relative to the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28.

[0109] Furthermore, although the third end plate 53 is described herein as a fixed end plate, and the device 55 (e.g., a hydraulic drive device) is fixed to the third end plate 53, it should be understood that the third end plate 53 is merely one example of a fixing structure, and this application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, any other suitable fixing structure may be used to fix the first end plate 51 and the device 55.

[0110] The inventors have recognized and are aware of a method for manufacturing the electrolysis unit 20. Specifically, a stack body formed by sequentially stacking a first porous transport layer 23, a first electrode layer 24, a membrane 25, a second electrode layer 26, and a second porous transport layer 27 along a stacking direction 28, and a seal 30 (and optionally an electrode plate 31) can be disposed between a first electrode frame 21 and a second electrode frame 22. Then, the first electrode frame 21 and the second electrode frame 22 are held together as a single structure by a first retaining portion 41 and a second retaining portion 42 (optionally, the seal 32 is disposed on the second electrode frame 22). In this way, the first electrode frame 21, the second electrode frame 22, the stack body, and the seal 30 can be formed as a single component, i.e., a single integral structure.

[0111] The inventors have also recognized and become aware of the method for manufacturing the electrolysis apparatus 10. Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, multiple electrolytic units 20 can be positioned between the second end plate 52 and the first end plate 51 of the clamp 50 along the stacking direction 28. When the holding portion is a magnetic attraction portion, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic attraction portions of adjacent electrolytic units 20 provides an initial holding force between the electrolytic units 20. Subsequently, the second end plate 52 can be driven to move toward the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28 by the control device 55 to increase the clamping force applied by the second end plate 52 and the first end plate 51 to the multiple electrolytic units 20, thereby reliably holding them in place. That is, for each electrolytic unit 20, during the assembly of the electrolytic unit 20 into the electrolysis device 10, a clamping force is applied to hold the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 together by the first holding portion 41 and the second holding portion 42, thereby holding the aforementioned stacked body and seal 30 in the electrolytic unit 20 between the second end plate 52 and the first end plate 51. In the assembled electrolysis device 10, the clamping force of the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 on the stack and the seal 30 is further applied by the clamp 50.

[0112] The inventors have also recognized and realized a method for disassembling and maintaining the electrolysis unit 10. Specifically, the second end plate 52 can be moved away from the first end plate 51 in the stacking direction 28 by the control device 55 to reduce the clamping force exerted by the second end plate 52 and the first end plate 51 on the plurality of electrolysis units 20, thereby allowing the electrolysis units 20 that need to be replaced to be removed from the electrolysis unit 10. The electrolysis units 20 adjacent to each other can be separated by the aforementioned tools or flipping mechanism. Subsequently, a new electrolysis unit 20 can be quickly installed into the electrolysis unit 10 and the clamping force can be reapplied to hold the plurality of electrolysis units 20 together, so that the electrolysis unit 10 can be restored to operation. The replaced electrolysis units 20 can be returned to the factory for repair. With the retaining part detachably holding the electrode frames together, the replaced electrolysis units 20 can be disassembled for repair.

[0113] Although the above description states that the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are respectively in the shape of approximately rectangular frames, it should be understood that the shapes of the first pole frame 21 and the second pole frame 22 are not limited to this, but can have any suitable shape, such as an annulus.

[0114] Although the above description illustrates the configuration, manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance methods of the components, electrolysis unit 20, and electrolysis apparatus 10 using the example of the first electrode frame 21 being the anode electrode frame and the second electrode frame 22 being the cathode electrode frame, it should be understood that the type of electrode frame is not limited thereto, and in other embodiments, the first electrode frame 21 may be the cathode electrode frame, and the second electrode frame 22 may be the anode electrode frame accordingly. In this case, the first porous transport layer 23 and the first electrode layer 24 are respectively the cathode porous transport layer and the cathode electrode layer, and the second porous transport layer 27 and the second electrode layer 26 are respectively the anode porous transport layer and the anode electrode layer.

[0115] Furthermore, although the electrolysis unit 20 is described herein for electrolyzing water in an alkaline electrolyte, it should be understood that the integrated assembly, electrolysis unit 20, and electrolysis device 10, or variations thereof, according to this application can be used in other types of electrolysis systems, such as PEM electrolysis systems, AEM electrolysis systems, etc. In the application of the electrolysis unit 20 in a PEM electrolysis system, the membrane 25 is a proton exchange membrane. In the application of the electrolysis unit 20 in an AEM electrolysis system, the membrane 25 is an anion exchange membrane. Furthermore, the configuration of the inlet manifold and outlet manifold can be changed accordingly.

[0116] In this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish one component or part from another, but these components or parts should not be limited by such terms.

[0117] The present application has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments. Obviously, the above description and the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings should be understood as exemplary and not as limiting the present application. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications or alterations without departing from the spirit of the present application, and such modifications or alterations do not depart from the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. An assembly for an electrolysis apparatus (10), comprising: A stacked body formed by sequentially stacking a first porous transport layer (23), a first electrode layer (24), a film (25), a second electrode layer (26), and a second porous transport layer (27) along a stacking direction (28); A seal (30) is disposed around the stack in a lateral direction perpendicular to the stacking direction; and A first pole frame (21) including a first retaining portion (41) and a second pole frame (22) including a second retaining portion (42), the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion cooperating with each other to hold the first pole frame and the second pole frame as an integral structure, thereby holding the stack and the seal therebetween; The first pole frame further includes a first opening (213) extending through the first pole frame along the stacking direction and having a first inner wall (214). The first porous transport layer is at least partially disposed in the first opening and has a first side edge (231). The first side edge and the first inner wall engage with each other in a shape-locking manner so that the first porous transport layer is held by the first pole frame.

2. The component according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first inner wall includes a first surface (214a) and a first flange (216) protruding from the first surface into the first opening, and the first side edge is supported by the first flange in the stacking direction.

3. The component according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first flange is a stepped flange having a top surface (216a) facing the stacking direction or a sloping flange having a ramp surface (216b) inclined relative to the stacking direction, and the first side edge is supported by the top surface or the ramp surface in the stacking direction. and / or The first flange is a continuous annular flange around the first porous transmission layer, or includes multiple flange segments spaced apart around the first porous transmission layer.

4. The component according to claim 2, characterized in that: Each of the first porous transport layer and the first electrode layer is integrally disposed in the first opening; The first inner wall further includes a first annular groove (217), which is recessed into the first pole frame from the second surface (211) of the first pole frame in the stacking direction and extends to the bottom surface (217a) of the first annular groove, and recessed into the first pole frame from the first surface in the lateral direction and extends to the side surface (217b) of the first annular groove. as well as The membrane is at least partially disposed in the first opening and has a second side edge (251) supported by the bottom surface of the first annular groove in the stacking direction.

5. The component according to claim 4, characterized in that: The membrane is integrally disposed in the first opening, and the surface (252) of the membrane opposite to the first electrode layer is flush with the second surface of the first electrode frame, and the second side edge has a first thickness (T) in the stacking direction; The first annular groove has a first depth (D) in the stacking direction; as well as The first thickness is equal to the first depth.

6. The component according to claim 5, characterized in that: The second pole frame has a third surface (221) facing the second surface of the first pole frame; as well as The seal is held between the second and third surfaces in the stacking direction and extends inward in the lateral direction beyond the side of the first annular groove to press against the side edge of the membrane.

7. The component according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second pole frame further includes a second opening (223) extending through the second pole frame along the stacking direction, and the second porous transport layer is at least partially disposed in the second opening; as well as The component also includes an electrode plate (31) held by the second electrode frame to hold the second porous transport layer in the second opening.

8. The component according to claim 7, characterized in that: The second pole frame has a second inner wall (224), the second inner wall including a fourth surface (224a) and a second annular groove (227) recessed inwardly from the fourth surface into the second pole frame in the lateral direction; and The electrode plate has a third side edge (311) that is inserted into the second annular groove so that the electrode plate is held by the second electrode frame.

9. The component according to claim 7, characterized in that: The electrode plate is a bipolar plate; and / or The seal is a first seal, and the assembly also includes a second seal (32) fixed to a fifth surface (222) of the second pole frame opposite to the first pole frame.

10. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The first retaining portion and the second retaining portion detachably retain the first pole frame and the second pole frame as a single structure.

11. The component according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first holding portion is a first magnetic attraction portion, and the second holding portion is a second magnetic attraction portion. The first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion magnetically attract each other to detachably hold the first pole frame and the second pole frame as an integral structure, wherein at least one of the first magnetic attraction portion and the second magnetic attraction portion includes a permanent magnet.

12. The component according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first magnetic attraction portion includes at least one first permanent magnet (61), and the second magnetic attraction portion includes at least one second permanent magnet (62); Each of the at least one first permanent magnet and the at least one second permanent magnet has a first magnetic pole (S) and a second magnetic pole (N), and is oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction; as well as Each of the at least one first permanent magnet and the corresponding second permanent magnet of the at least one second permanent magnet are aligned with each other in the stacking direction such that the first magnetic pole of each first permanent magnet and the second magnetic pole of the corresponding second permanent magnet face each other.

13. The component according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first magnetic attraction portion further includes at least one third permanent magnet (63), and the second magnetic attraction portion further includes at least one fourth permanent magnet (64); Each of the at least one third permanent magnet and the at least one fourth permanent magnet has a first magnetic pole (S) and a second magnetic pole (N), and is oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction; as well as Each of the at least one third permanent magnet and its corresponding fourth permanent magnet are aligned with each other in the stacking direction such that the second magnetic pole of each third permanent magnet and the first magnetic pole of the corresponding fourth permanent magnet face each other.

14. The component according to claim 13, characterized in that: The at least one first permanent magnet and the at least one third permanent magnet are arranged in a first arrangement pattern, and the at least one second permanent magnet and the at least one fourth permanent magnet are arranged in a second arrangement pattern, wherein the first arrangement pattern and the second arrangement pattern are matched to each other such that the first pole frame and the second pole frame are held together as a single structure with a unique orientation relative to each other; or The at least one first permanent magnet includes a plurality of first permanent magnets, the at least one second permanent magnet includes a plurality of second permanent magnets, the at least one third permanent magnet includes a plurality of third permanent magnets, and the at least one fourth permanent magnet includes a plurality of fourth permanent magnets. The plurality of first permanent magnets and the plurality of third permanent magnets are alternately arranged around the stack on the first pole frame, and the plurality of second permanent magnets and the plurality of fourth permanent magnets are alternately arranged around the stack on the second pole frame.

15. The component according to claim 13, characterized in that: Each of the first permanent magnets is spaced apart from the corresponding second permanent magnet in the stacking direction by a first gap (G1), the first gap being configured to receive a fifth permanent magnet (65), the fifth permanent magnet having a first magnetic pole and a second magnetic pole, and being oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction, wherein the first magnetic pole of the fifth permanent magnet faces the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet, and the second magnetic pole of the fifth permanent magnet faces the second magnetic pole of the second permanent magnet; and / or Each of the third permanent magnets is spaced apart from the corresponding fourth permanent magnet in the stacking direction by a second gap, the second gap being configured to receive a sixth permanent magnet having a first magnetic pole and a second magnetic pole, and being oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the stacking direction, wherein the second magnetic pole of the sixth permanent magnet faces the second magnetic pole of the third permanent magnet, and the first magnetic pole of the sixth permanent magnet faces the first magnetic pole of the fourth permanent magnet.

16. The component according to claim 11, characterized in that: The first magnetic attraction portion includes at least one first permanent magnet (61'), and the second magnetic attraction portion includes at least one second permanent magnet (62'), each of the at least one first permanent magnet and the at least one second permanent magnet having a first magnetic pole and a second magnetic pole, and being oriented such that the first magnetic pole and the second magnetic pole are opposite to each other in the lateral direction; as well as Each of the at least one first permanent magnet and the corresponding second permanent magnet of the at least one second permanent magnet are aligned with each other in the stacking direction such that the first magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet and the second magnetic pole of the corresponding second permanent magnet face each other in the stacking direction, and the second magnetic pole of the first permanent magnet and the first magnetic pole of the corresponding second permanent magnet face each other in the stacking direction.

17. The component according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that: The first pole frame and / or the second pole frame are configured such that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the corresponding permanent magnets can be reversed.

18. The component according to claim 17, characterized in that: Each of the first and second pole frames includes a first outer wall opposite to the first inner wall and lugs (2155, 2255) protruding outward from the first outer wall; as well as Each of the first permanent magnets is disposed in a corresponding lug of the first pole frame, and each of the second permanent magnets is disposed in a corresponding lug of the second pole frame.

19. The component according to claim 18, characterized in that: Each of the lugs of the first pole frame and / or the lugs of the second pole frame is configured to be flippable, such that the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the corresponding permanent magnet disposed in the lug can be flipped. and / or Each of the at least one first permanent magnet and / or the at least one second permanent magnet is configured to be flipped in a corresponding lug to flip the orientation of the first and second magnetic poles of the permanent magnet.

20. An electrolysis apparatus (10), comprising: A plurality of electrolytic units (20), each of the plurality of electrolytic units comprising the components according to any one of claims 1 to 19, and the plurality of electrolytic units being stacked along the stacking direction (28) and held together.

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